Solar cell, module, array, network, and power grid

Abstract

The present invention teaches a solar cell, a solar module, a solar array, a network of solar arrays, and also a solar power grid suitable for providing power for industrial, residential and transportation use. A solar cell or solar module including a plurality of solar cells can be made in a structure configured to have the appearance of natural foliage. Accordingly, a solar array including a plurality of solar modules each including at least one solar cell can be made to resemble a palm tree, a deciduous tree, an evergreen tree, or other type of natural foliage. A network of solar arrays can be made to resemble a row or grove of palm trees, and thus meet the functional and aesthetic demands of landscape architecture. The network of solar arrays can extend for many miles alongside roads, highways, railways, pipelines, or canals, and can further include means for storing and transmitting electric power. In particular, a network of solar arrays can be in communication with recharging stations for use by electric and hybrid transportation vehicles. Accordingly, a network of solar arrays can form at least a portion of a solar power grid.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to a solar cell, a solar module, a solar array, a network of solar arrays, and a solar power grid for generating electric power for industrial, residential, and transportation use. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] The world's present population is over six billion, and it is projected that by the year 2020 it will grow to over nine billion persons. Worldwide power consumption in 1997 was approximately 380 quadrillion British thermal units (Btu), and in response to the projected growth in population and industry the demand for power is expected to grow to about 608 quadrillion Btu by the year 2020. Likewise, worldwide consumption of oil is presently over 75 million barrels per day, and demand is expected to grow to about 120 million barrel per day by the year 2020. The world's oil reserves are estimated to be approximately 1,027 billion barrels. Fossil fuels such as coal, gas, and oil are non-renewable resources, and the b...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0004] The present invention teaches a solar cell, a solar module, a solar array, a network of solar arrays, and also a solar power grid suitable for providing power for industrial, residential and transportation use. A solar cell or solar module including a plurality of solar cells can comprise a structure configured to have the appearance of natural foliage. Accordingly, a solar array including a plurality of solar modules each including at least one solar cell can be made to resemble a palm tree, a deciduous tree, an evergreen tree, or other type of natural foliage. A network of solar arrays can be made to resemble a row or grove of palm trees, and thus meet the functional and aesthetic demands of landscape architecture. A network of solar arrays can extend for many miles alongside roads, highways, railways, pipelines, or canals. A network of solar arrays can comprise means for storing electric power. A network of solar arrays can comprise means for transmitting electric power. A network of solar arrays can comprise recharging stations for use by electric and hybrid transportation vehicles. A network of solar arrays can comprise at least a portion of a solar power grid.

Problems solved by technology

Fossil fuels such as coal, gas, and oil are non-renewable resources, and the burning of these fuels results in pollution of the earth's atmosphere, land, and water.

Further, the burning of various fossil fuels contributes to global warming and dramatic changes in climate, thus mankind is presently faced with an environmental catastrophe.

However, even the burning of a non-fossil fuel such as hydrogen can possibly contribute to the problem of global warming.

Moreover, the creation of power generating facilities have sometimes compromised aesthetics and had other adverse environmental impacts.

Dams have sometimes restricted the navigation of waterways and adversely effected fish populations such as salmon in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States.

The installation of poles and overhead transmission lines alongside roads can constitute a hazard for motorists and compromise aesthetics.

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